Hosted by Tony Rock and executive-produced by Academy Award winner Jamie Foxx, the series features Grammy Award winner Gladys Knight, Doug E. Fresh and Michael Bivins as mentors to hopeful contestants.

New York, NY — June 4, 2014 — The Apollo Theater shines anew for the next generation of rising stars. Continuing the historical legacy of the famed Apollo Theater of giving a stage to future stars, BET Networks announced today the premiere of the second season of its original series APOLLO LIVE. Hosted by funnyman Tony Rock, the 10-episode series premieres Tuesday, July 1 at 10 PM ET/PT. The show’s expert talent advisors — legendary songstress Gladys Knight, hip-hop pioneer Doug E. Fresh and R&B hit maker Michael Bivins — will give guidance to each hopeful contestant as they aspire to jumpstart their careers. 

Each APOLLO LIVE contestant will face an audience who will decide their fate with either thunderous applause or disheartening boos. The hour-long series promises a bevy of special guest appearances and star performances, including Chrisette Michele, Jennifer Holliday, Kierra Sheard, Musiq Soulchild, Tye Tribbett, Lalah Hathaway, Marsha Ambrosius, Mint Condition, Tamia and A$AP Ferg featuring A$AP Rocky.

The executive producers, Academy Award winner Jamie Foxx, Marcus King, Don Weiner and Marilyn Gill have put a fresh spin on the classic “Amateur Night” at Harlem's iconic venue, including a talent showcase and a singing competition.

For more information on APOLLO LIVE, go to BET.com/ApolloLive. Join the conversation on Facebook by liking the fan page at facebook.com/ApolloLive and on Twitter by using the #ApolloLive hashtag and following us @ApolloLiveTV.